The forthcoming CDOIF Major Hazard Human Harm Risk Assessment (MHHHRA) Guidance presents a new consistent and structured approach to assessing the potential consequences of major hazard events. The guidance is expected to provide operators and duty holders with a framework for evaluating human harm risks, supporting robust decision-making and helping to demonstrate compliance with evolving regulatory expectations.
As organisations prepare for the introduction of the guidance, understanding both the technical requirements and the practical implications of its application will be essential. While the MHHHRA methodology formalises several concepts and approaches, many of the underlying principles have been developing within the major hazard industry for some time.
At ESR Technology, our safety and risk consultants have extensive experience supporting COMAH operators across a broad range of sectors. We have also been directly involved in reviewing and commenting on the draft MHHHRA guidance and have provided technical feedback to the CDOIF working group. In addition, we have supported the piloting of draft versions of the methodology at existing COMAH sites, providing practical insight into its implementation and application within real-world major hazard assessments. This involvement has given us a detailed understanding of the guidance and the challenges organisations may encounter as they adopt the new approach.
The introduction of MHHHRA is likely to require organisations to review existing major accident risk assessments and how this is presented within COMAH Safety Reports and supporting documentation. Early preparation can help identify potential gaps, minimise future rework and ensure better alignment with regulatory expectations.
ESR Technology can support clients with:
- Reviewing existing major hazard assessments against the principles of the new guidance.
- Providing independent technical review of predictive assessments and compliance with the COMAH regulations.
- Undertaking Major Accident Risk Assessments for both new and existing facilities.
- Supporting sites with their COMAH Safety Report submissions.
With decades of experience in Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA), COMAH compliance and major hazard risk assessment, ESR Technology is well placed to help organisations navigate the the new MHHHRA approach with confidence.
To discuss how the forthcoming CDOIF MHHHRA guidance may affect your organisation or projects, please contact our COMAH specialists at info@esrtechnology.com
